Scott Cohen | The Green Scene Landscaping and Pools

Splitting the difference

A covered kitchen near the pool provides first-class entertainment while blocking the neighbors? view from the second floor. For added screening, the designer also placed some palm trees and a hedge of podocarpus, which is light on leaf drop and grows high without spreading out. ?I like to screen views with layers ? hardscape and plant material,? Cohen says.

Under the roof, the split-level floor works with grade differences and accommodates a swim-up bar placed 3 feet lower than the deck-level kitchen with custom fireplace. A fire pit with bench provides an intimate spot. ?That area has the best view of the sunset,? Cohen says.

Flooring throughout the yard is made of vanilla- and mocha-colored travertine stone. A laser-cut, inlaid travertine trim accents the fire bowl pedestals, kitchen backsplash and stuccoed fireplace.